LIVERPOOL are on the brink of confirming Rafael Benitez's appointment as manager.

LIVERPOOL are on the brink of confirming Rafael Benitez's appointment as manager.

The ex-Valencia coach is heading to Merseyside to rubber-stamp his position as the 16th manager at Anfield.

Liverpool are now preparing an official announcement and Benitez could be in the job within the next 48 hours. Chief executive Rick Parry returned from holiday over the weekend to finalise details of an outstanding selection.

No last ditch problems are anticipated when further talks are held with the 44-year-old coach today.

Benitez was always the Reds' first choice to replace Gerard Houllier, despite speculation linking the club with the likes of Alan Curbishley and Jose Mourinho.

From the early stages, it was clear Benitez fit the bill as he boasts an impressive mix of European flair and a studious knowledge of the English game.

Benitez was known to be disillusioned with life at the Spanish champions and eager to test himself in the Premiership.

From the moment he quit the UEFA Cup holders last week, he was in regular contact with Anfield officials.

His arrival looks sure to convince Michael Owen to pledge his immediate future to the club.

Owen is known to be a huge admirer of Valencia's style of football and has admitted in the past the Spanish champions are one of the most impressive teams he's faced.

Any prospect of a successful Chelsea bid for Steven Gerrard after Euro 2004 also looks doomed, especially if the Madri d -born coach recruits some of the Valencia players believed to be on his wanted list at Anfield.

Further changes in the structure of the back-room team are anticipated following Benitez's arrival.

His Valencia assistant Francisco Ayestaran has followed Benitez in the past. He moved with him from Tenerife to the Mestalla Stadium four years ago, although it's still unclear if he'll follow Benitez to Anfield.

If he does, it is likely to affect Phil Thompson, who hasn't been guaranteed a job under the new regime.

Sammy Lee, who speaks fluent Spanish from his time playing for Osasuna, is likely to stay at Liverpool.

Ian Rush, currently studying for the coveted UEFA 'pro' licence, is also understood to be a popular choice among the squad and supporters for a more permanent role.